Oral cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, with an estimated 354,864 new cases and 177,384 deaths in 2020, according to the World Health Organization.

Although the main risk factors for oral cancer have been known for decades, such as tobacco and alcohol use, a new study has identified some additional risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer. Here are some of the top new risk factors for oral cancer, as well as some steps that you can take to reduce your risk of this disease.

Tobacco use

Tobacco use has long been recognized as one of the leading risk factors for oral cancer.

However, a recent study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that using a waterpipe (also known as a hookah) may increase the risk of oral cancer by as much as 80%. The study analyzed data from over 8,000 individuals from 13 different case-control studies, with some of the subjects coming from the Middle East and North Africa, where waterpipes are popular.

The authors of the study noted that while waterpipe smoking is often seen as less harmful than cigarette smoking, it is actually associated with a higher risk of oral cancer.

Oral hygiene issues

Poor oral hygiene has also been identified as a new risk factor for oral cancer. A study published in the Journal of Dental Research found that people with poor oral health were more likely to develop oral cancer than those with good oral health.

The study analyzed data from over 40,000 individuals from 10 different countries, and found that poor oral hygiene, including gum disease and tooth loss, was associated with a higher risk of oral cancer. The authors of the study recommend that people who are at risk of oral cancer should have regular dental checkups and practice good oral hygiene.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection that has been linked to several types of cancer, including oral cancer.

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that people with HPV-positive oral cancers were more likely to have a history of multiple sexual partners and a history of oral sex. The study analyzed data from over 400 individuals with oral cancer, and found that HPV was present in 72% of the tumors. The authors of the study suggest that getting vaccinated against HPV may help reduce the risk of oral cancer.

Alcohol use

Alcohol use has long been recognized as one of the leading risk factors for oral cancer. However, a recent study published in the British Journal of Cancer found that the type of alcohol that is consumed may affect the risk of oral cancer.

The study analyzed data from over 2,500 individuals from 10 different countries, and found that people who drank spirits (such as vodka or whiskey) were more likely to develop oral cancer than those who drank beer or wine. The authors of the study suggest that people who are at risk of oral cancer may want to limit their consumption of spirits.

Dietary factors

Dietary factors have also been identified as potential risk factors for oral cancer.

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that people who ate a diet high in red and processed meats were more likely to develop oral cancer than those who ate a diet high in fruits and vegetables. The study analyzed data from over 500 individuals with oral cancer, and found that those who ate a lot of red and processed meats had a higher risk of oral cancer than those who ate a lot of fruits and vegetables.

The authors of the study suggest that people who are at risk of oral cancer should eat a healthy diet that is low in red and processed meats.

Other risk factors

In addition to these new risk factors, there are several other factors that have been linked to an increased risk of oral cancer. These include:.

Age – oral cancer is more common in people over the age of 40
Gender – men are more likely to develop oral cancer than women
Family history – having a family member with oral cancer may increase the risk
Sun exposure – excessive sun exposure can increase the risk of lip cancer

Reducing your risk of oral cancer

While some risk factors for oral cancer, such as age and gender, cannot be changed, there are several steps that you can take to reduce your risk of this disease. Here are some of the top ways to reduce your risk of oral cancer:.

Avoid tobacco use, including cigarettes and waterpipes
Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly and seeing a dentist for regular checkups
Limit your alcohol consumption, and avoid drinking spirits if possible
Eat a healthy diet that is low in red and processed meats and high in fruits and vegetables
Use sunscreen and protective clothing to limit sun exposure, especially on the lips
Consider getting vaccinated against HPV, especially if you are at risk of the infection

Conclusion

Oral cancer is a serious and often deadly disease, but there are steps that you can take to reduce your risk.

By avoiding tobacco use, practicing good oral hygiene, limiting alcohol consumption, eating a healthy diet, and protecting yourself from the sun, you can help reduce your risk of oral cancer. Additionally, getting vaccinated against HPV may also help reduce the risk of this disease. By following these steps, you can help protect your oral health and stay healthy for years to come.